Hollis Jefferson Black

1942 - 2025

U.S. Veteran

Springfield – Hollis Jefferson Black, 82, passed into the loving arms of Jesus on June 5, 2025 a home surrounded by his loving family.

Hollis was born in Webster County, Georgia on October 23, 1942 to John Hollis and Ruby DeLois Black. He spent most of his adult life in Springfield, Georgia after marrying the love of his life, Nelda Bevill Black. They were married for 50 years.

Hollis had a true servant's heart and spent his life in service to his church and community. He was an active member of the First Baptist Church of Springfield and served as a deacon for many years. He also served as a volunteer at God's Mission House food pantry for many years. When his sons were young he was an RA leader at FBCS where he mentored young boys. Hollis was a member of the church's Disaster Relief Team where he served during many hurricanes, tornadoes, floods and other disasters. He was a member of the American Legion of Springfield.

Hollis was employed by Seaboard Coast Line, Atlantic Coast Line and CSX Railroad for 38 years as a train dispatcher. He also served honorably in the United States Air Force for 4 years and the United States Air Force Reserve for 2 years.

Hollis was known by everyone who knew him for his quick wit and hilarious commentary. He kept his friends and family in constant laughter.

Hollis was preceded in death by his wife, Nelda Black and son, Jeffery Evans Black.

He is survived by his son, Jud Black, his daughter, Marla Campbell (Eric), and his two grandchildren, Kaylee and Shane Campbell, siblings, Nesta Dees, Shirley Simmons (Garnett), Neal Black (Carolyn), sisters-in-law, Nancy Ethridge (Curtis), Myrna Metzger (Brandon), brother-in-law, Evans Bevill (Lisa), and many nieces and nephews who loved him dearly.

Visitation will be 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Monday, June 9, 2025 at the First Baptist Church of Springfield followed by funeral services at 11 a.m. with Rev. Eric Green officiating. Pallbearers will be Phillip Dye, Alec Metzger, Watson Bevill, and Graham Metzger. Honorary pallbearers will be his Wednesday Men's Bible Study group.

Interment will follow in Springfield Cemetery Annex.

In lieu of flowers donations may be given in memory of Hollis to God's Mission House, c/o First Baptist Church of Springfield, 1435 Hwy. 119 N., Springfield, GA 31329.

Thomas C. Strickland & Sons Funeral Home, Effingham Chapel. 912-754-6421